Traffic management is a critical aspect of infrastructure development and maintenance, ensuring the safety of workers, drivers, and pedestrians while maintaining the efficient flow of traffic. In New Zealand, companies like Active Traffic Control operate within strict regulatory frameworks and adhere to stringent health and safety policies.
Some companies, such as Active Traffic Control, further enhance their capabilities with +IMPAC PREQUAL qualification, ISO accreditation, and recognition as a preferred supplier by Tōtika, showcasing their expertise and commitment to excellence as a traffic management company.
This article explores the various roles within a traffic management company, their responsibilities, required qualifications, and how they contribute to each project’s success from planning to activation.
Key Roles in a Traffic Management Company
Traffic management companies rely on a range of specialised roles to ensure every project runs smoothly and complies with stringent safety and regulatory standards. Each role is integral to creating a safe and efficient work environment.
• Traffic Management Planner (TMP Designer)
The Traffic Management Planner is responsible for developing comprehensive Traffic Management Plans (TMPs). These plans dictate how traffic will be managed around work sites while ensuring minimal disruption to road users. TMP Designers must work closely with clients and stakeholders, assessing site-specific conditions and ensuring plans comply with New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) regulations and local council requirements.
To excel in this role, a TMP Designer needs a Level 2/3 Practising TMP Designer certification, a strong grasp of the NZ Code of Practice for Temporary Traffic Management (CoPTTM), and experience using design tools like CAD. This role is pivotal in the initial stages of a project, ensuring both safety and compliance are central to planning.
• Traffic Controller (TC)
Traffic Controllers implement the traffic management plan on-site. Their primary duties include setting up, maintaining, and removing traffic control devices such as cones, signs, and barriers. They monitor traffic flow and make adjustments as necessary, maintaining open communication with road users to ensure compliance with safety measures.
Becoming a Traffic Controller requires a TC qualification, typically achieved through a one-day training course. A sound understanding of CoPTTM guidelines is essential. During a closure, Traffic Controllers put the approved TMP into action, ensuring the setup is both effective and safe.
• Site Traffic Management Supervisor (STMS)
The Site Traffic Management Supervisor oversees the execution of the TMP on-site. They conduct safety audits, manage teams of Traffic Controllers, and act as the primary liaison between the project management team and authorities. Their leadership ensures that the work adheres to all safety and operational standards.
An STMS requires certification at Levels 1, 2, or 3, depending on the complexity of the closure, along with substantial field experience. On-site, the STMS ensures operations run smoothly, addressing challenges or incidents as they arise.
• Traffic Operations Manager
The Traffic Operations Manager plays a strategic role, coordinating activities across multiple projects. They handle resource allocation, manage client relationships, and resolve logistical challenges. This role requires a strong background in traffic management or civil engineering, combined with advanced leadership and project management skills.
From project inception to completion, the Traffic Operations Manager ensures all components align seamlessly, maintaining overall accountability for successful service delivery.
• Traffic Equipment Coordinator
Managing the inventory, maintenance, and deployment of traffic management equipment falls to the Traffic Equipment Coordinator. This role ensures all devices meet regulatory standards and are delivered to project sites on time.
Logistics experience and familiarity with CoPTTM standards are essential for this position. The Traffic Equipment Coordinator supports operational teams by ensuring they have the right tools to execute projects effectively.
• Health and Safety Officer
Health and safety are paramount in traffic management. The Health and Safety Officer conducts risk assessments, ensures compliance with WorkSafe NZ regulations, and investigates any incidents that occur during projects. Their work ensures all activities prioritise the well-being of workers and the public.
A Health and Safety Officer must hold relevant qualifications, such as a Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety, and have an in-depth understanding of New Zealand’s Health and Safety at Work Act. They are involved at every stage of a project, embedding safety into all aspects of execution.
• Certification and Experience Requirements
In New Zealand, traffic management professionals must meet NZTA’s CoPTTM standards. Roles require certifications such as Traffic Controller (TC) for entry-level tasks, STMS certification for supervisory responsibilities, and TMP Designer certification for advanced planning. Health and safety training is also mandatory, ensuring adherence to stringent guidelines.
Field experience is often essential, as is knowledge of local council and NZTA regulations. Successful professionals are adaptable and capable of addressing dynamic project requirements and unforeseen challenges.
Role Contributions Across Project Phases
Traffic management projects unfold in distinct phases, with each role contributing at critical points to ensure success.
• Job Acquisition and Initial Assessment
The Traffic Operations Manager engages with clients to understand project requirements. Concurrently, the Health and Safety Officer performs an initial risk assessment, identifying potential hazards and proposing mitigation measures.
• Plan Development
The TMP Designer creates a tailored plan that adheres to regulatory standards and addresses site-specific challenges. Meanwhile, the Traffic Equipment Coordinator ensures that all necessary equipment is available and compliant with regulations.
• Pre-Implementation Review
Before work begins, the STMS reviews the TMP for feasibility and compliance. The Health and Safety Officer conducts a pre-implementation briefing, preparing the team to manage risks effectively.
• Implementation and Monitoring
Traffic Controllers execute the TMP on-site, setting up and maintaining traffic control measures. The STMS supervises operations, making real-time adjustments as needed. Throughout the project, the Health and Safety Officer monitors compliance, ensuring safety remains a top priority.
Project Completion
Once the work is complete, Traffic Controllers dismantle the site setup. The Traffic Equipment Coordinator accounts for all equipment and oversees its return. Finally, the STMS and Health and Safety Officer conduct a post-project review, identifying lessons learned to improve future operations.
Final Thoughts
Traffic management is a collaborative effort that depends on a diverse range of roles, each bringing specialised expertise to ensure the safety and efficiency of projects. From the meticulous planning of TMP Designers to the on-the-ground execution by Traffic Controllers, every team member plays a crucial part in delivering successful outcomes.
Understanding these roles and their interplay highlights the complexities and precision required to achieve excellence in traffic management.
If you need a specialised traffic management company to help you with your next project in Auckland, Whangarei, or Hamilton, reach out to us at www.activetraffic.co.nz/contact.